The founder of a new movement in contemporary art, acclaimed American artist of Ukrainian origin Sergey Melnikoff (MFF), has begun in Ukraine the creation of the Coat of Arms of Italy forged from the “Ashes of War” — a symbol of heartfelt gratitude to the Italian nation.

When the ashes of war turn to gold, art capable of healing is born. In this new work, Melnikoff unites pain and hope, shaping the Italian emblem through his unique technique, the “Ashes of War” — conceived on Ukrainian soil under the roar of shelling. His workshop lies in southern Ukraine, within a zone of constant bombardment, where fragments of destruction are reborn as particles of light.

For over three years, Melnikoff has been creating sacred symbols — not in memory of war, but in the name of peace. His masterpieces, such as the “Cross of Peace”, whose golden Christ is made from twenty thousand tiny shell fragments covered in pure gold, and “The Holy Mandylion”, have already been hailed by art critics as modern echoes of the Renaissance.

MFF’s process is unique: not a single fragment is reshaped. Each piece is a monumental puzzle — thousands of shards, once instruments of death, reassembled into living images of faith.

For this new project, the artist will forge a shield from the remnants of munitions, upon which will shine a golden star made of minute metallic fragments. On each side, oak and laurel branches in nickel plating will symbolise Italy’s strength and dignity.

This sculpture is far more than a work of art. It is a gesture of gratitude towards the Italian people, who extended their hand to Ukraine in the darkest hour of its modern history.
“This country became home to many Ukrainians,” the artist says. “The Italians never divided pain into ‘ours’ and ‘theirs’. Their kind hearts became the shield that saved lives.”

To Melnikoff, the shield bearing the emblem symbolises Europe itself — vulnerable yet unbreakable. It bears the scars of war, but within those scars lies the reflection of light, the rebirth of culture, and faith in humankind.

The “Ashes of War” project has become a global emblem of humanity. It is presented internationally by the third President of Ukraine, Viktor Yushchenko, who is expected to personally deliver the Italian Coat of Arms on behalf of the Ukrainian people. Where the work will ultimately be placed remains a mystery. Melnikoff simply smiles: “Let the Italians choose the place themselves — as long as it breathes the spirit of peace.”

Today, the artist seeks patrons and donors in Italy, as Ukraine fights a bloody war and devotes all resources to resisting absolute evil. Completing the sculpture will be possible only with the support of those who believe that art can still heal the world.

It is essential to note that Melnikoff keeps not a single cent for himself. All donations through https://italy.mff.name go entirely towards the creation of the monumental work — including the gold and nickel used in its electroplating — and to humanitarian programmes helping Ukrainian children disabled by war.
Melnikoff is also the founder of the world-renowned International Charitable Foundation “The Soul of Ukraine”.

Thus, high art becomes an act of gratitude.
Thus, metal that once killed is transformed in the artist’s hands into a symbol of life.
And thus Italy — the land that once led humanity out of darkness through the Renaissance — now partakes in a new awakening: a renaissance of goodness.